Story perspectives

LA Fire Encampment Fires Surge, Residents Blame Mayor

4/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Los Angeles Fire Department reported encampment-related fires rose sharply in 2022, reaching 16,982, more than double the 7,165 fires in 2020.
The department attributed slower emergency responses to rising call volumes and chronic understaffing.
A recent incident involved squatters allegedly setting fire to a house, destroying a neighboring home, and causing the death of three pets.
Residents blame Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for failing to address the crisis, saying it endangers lives and property.

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Story summary

The Los Angeles Fire Department reported encampment-related fires rose sharply in 2022, reaching 16,982, more than double the 7,165 fires in 2020.
The department attributed slower emergency responses to rising call volumes and chronic understaffing.
A recent incident involved squatters allegedly setting fire to a house, destroying a neighboring home, and causing the death of three pets.
Residents blame Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for failing to address the crisis, saying it endangers lives and property.